For so many (good) reasons you can join local walkers in the Kiama community five days a week for a 45 – 60 minute walk. The pace is medium, and you can bring your dog if you like.

John Lennon, originally from Ireland, has lived all over the world, but settled in Kiama many years ago. He was one of the original walkers when the group started 22 years ago. He said, “There are 77 walkers registered but we usually have about 20 regular members turning up each day. More is always welcome.”  

There are all ages in the group, mostly from 40-years plus, but John says all ages are welcome. The oldest member is Fred Coulson, who just celebrated his 96th birthday, and still joins the group for walks. Fred may not go for the whole walk, but he enjoys meeting up with his walking friends.

The group meets each weekday at 8am at Black Beach, opposite the Post Office. The aim is to keep healthy and get some good exercise, whilst enjoying the company of your fellow walkers. So it’s a great opportunity to make friends and enjoy the fresh air at the same time.

How can you join in? Ann is the organiser and her email is [email protected] You can also go online to the Heart Foundation to register to become part of the group, but it's just as easy to turn up in the morning and she’ll take your name and details. 

To encourage group members to walk regularly, Heart Foundation Walking has a Walker Recognition Scheme. At certain walking milestones, they will reward you with certificates, incentives and discounts on Heart Foundation merchandise. Walk data is recorded by your volunteer Walk Organiser and is based on the number of walks you complete with your official Heart Foundation Walking group.

John has received recognition from the Heart Foundation for achieving 3000 walks. No wonder he’s so spritely at the age of 86. Could it be because he hasn’t touched a drop of alcohol in his entire adult life?

The oldest member of the walking group is Fred Coulson, who has just celebrated his 96th birthday!

Fred enjoys the friendship he's made over the years in the walking group.

Heart Foundation Walking Group website: https://walking.heartfoundation.org.au/walking/group/kiama-walking-group